ORLANDO, Fla. – As the leaders of Orlando’s most famous attractions offered condolences on social media for the victims of Sunday’s mass shooting, many wondered if security would be stepped up at Central Florida’s theme parks in the wake of the tragedy.
Police said the gunman, identified as 29-year-old Omar Mir Seddique Mateen, opened fire early Sunday at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, killing 50 people and injuring at least 53 more in what is the worst mass shooting in U.S. history.
Mateen called 911 around the time of the attack to pledge his allegiance to ISIS and he mentioned the Boston Marathon bombers, according to the FBI.
After the shooting, SeaWorld released a statement Sunday regarding security.
“The safety of our ambassadors, guests and animals has always been our top priority. Our security teams work closely with law enforcement, and we have enhanced security measures at all our parks ... we do not comment on the details of our security measures in order to maintain their effectiveness."
The Orlando Sentinel reported Capt. Angelo Nieves of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office said deputies at Disney World were put on alert after the shooting. Disney contracts with the Sheriff’s Office to provide some security at its parks. Nieves told the Sentinel that deputies were being “extra cautious and vigilant in the park areas” on Sunday.
It’s unclear if other theme parks in Orlando had similar reactions regarding security.
On the other side of the country, law enforcement agencies in Southern California stepped up security at theme parks Sunday, according to a report from The Hollywood Reporter.
Authorities told the publication that more deputies would be in and around Universal Studios and Universal City on Sunday.
Anaheim police said the Disneyland always has a high police presence and would be closely watched following the tragedy in Orlando.
Orlando’s major parks issued statements Sunday, expressing sadness over the attack.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those touched by the unimaginable events that occurred in Orlando early this morning,” SeaWorld posted on its Facebook page. “As members of the Central Florida community, we must all come together during challenging times and we offer our collective strength and support to help as we heal from this tragedy.”
Walt Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger offered a similar sentiment.
“We are all heartbroken by the tragic and horrific events in Orlando, and offer our thoughts, prayers and support to everyone in our community affected by this senseless act.”
And Universal Parks & Resorts Chairman Tom Williams wrote:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected by this morning’s tragedy. We stand ready to help our community in any way we can.”